Vancouver

Let’s be clear about Vancouver. It’s the market everyone in BC benchmarks against, for better or worse. With a population of over 660,000 that grew nearly 5% in just five years, and a density approaching 6,000 people per square kilometer, it operates on a completely different scale. The economy isn’t a one-industry town; it’s a complex hub for professional services, tech, film, and healthcare. This is supported by a highly educated workforce where over half the population holds a bachelor’s degree or higher, creating a dynamic but fiercely competitive environment.

The housing market reflects this reality. Single-detached homes make up less than 15% of the housing stock. The scene is dominated by apartments and duplexes, a direct result of geographic constraints and intense demand. It’s a fast-moving, high-value environment with its own set of rules and risk profiles. The city’s desirability is undeniable, fuelled by a unique lifestyle that blends urban culture with immediate access to the ocean and mountains. The famously mild climate, now a full plant hardiness Zone 9a, makes it a magnet for lifestyle buyers and retirees, ensuring strong resale demand but also adding another layer of competitive pressure. This is a market built for the big banks and national lenders who can navigate its ecosystem.

Our lending model is built for a different BC. Tekamar’s mandate is to operate exclusively outside of Greater Vancouver and the Fraser Valley. We call ourselves “the MIC for towns without stoplights,” and that’s a mission we take seriously. Our strength lies in understanding the economies and real estate dynamics of places like Kelowna, Prince George, or Grand Forks—markets that are often underserved by larger, centralized lenders. Our safety-first approach, where every deal is underwritten with a worst-case recovery scenario in mind, is calibrated for the timelines and characteristics of these smaller communities.

The pace, property values, and legal complexities of the Vancouver market fall squarely outside our framework. It’s a fundamentally different type of lending that requires a different capital structure and risk tolerance, especially when factoring in variables like a 9.0% unemployment rate. We know our lane, and it runs through the rest of the province. For brokers looking for a partner in Vancouver, we aren’t the right fit. We’re transparent about where we add value, and this isn’t it. For any deals located within the City of Vancouver, our position is firm.

Maximum LTV: 0.0%